A quality washer and dryer set is a significant investment. The average washing machine lasts about 10 to 14 years, and dryers tend to last around 13 years. But those numbers assume you are taking care of them. With some straightforward maintenance habits, you can push well past those averages and avoid costly breakdowns along the way. Here is what our Glendale repair technicians recommend.
Washing Machine Maintenance
Use the Right Amount of Detergent
More soap does not mean cleaner clothes. Excess detergent creates too many suds, which leave residue inside the drum, on seals, and in the drain pump. Over time, this residue becomes a breeding ground for mold and mildew — and it makes your machine work harder than it needs to. If you have a high-efficiency (HE) washer, always use HE-rated detergent and follow the dosing guidelines on the bottle.
Clean the Drum and Gasket Monthly
Front-load washers are especially prone to developing a musty smell. That odor comes from moisture and soap residue trapped in the rubber door gasket. Once a month, wipe down the gasket with a cloth dampened with a mild vinegar solution. Run an empty hot-water cycle with two cups of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaning tablet to flush out buildup inside the drum and hoses.
Inspect Hoses Every Six Months
The rubber supply hoses connecting your washer to the water valves degrade over time. A burst hose can dump hundreds of gallons of water into your laundry room in minutes. Check for bulges, cracks, or stiffness every six months. If your hoses are more than five years old, consider upgrading to braided stainless steel hoses — they are far more durable and resistant to bursting.
Do Not Overload the Machine
It is tempting to stuff in one more towel to save a cycle, but overloading puts serious stress on the drum bearings, suspension springs, and motor. It also means your clothes do not get properly cleaned because water and detergent cannot circulate. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended load size. Your machine will thank you.
Leave the Door Open After Each Wash
This simple habit makes a big difference, especially for front-loaders. Leaving the door ajar allows moisture to evaporate, preventing mold growth inside the drum and gasket. Glendale homes can get warm, which actually helps with drying — just make sure pets and small children cannot climb inside.
Dryer Maintenance
Clean the Lint Trap Before Every Load
You have heard this one before, but it bears repeating. A clogged lint screen restricts airflow, forcing the dryer to run longer and hotter. This wastes energy, wears out the heating element faster, and — most importantly — creates a fire hazard. Lint is highly flammable. Clean the screen before every single load without exception.
Deep-Clean the Lint Trap Quarterly
Even if you clean the screen after every load, dryer sheets and fabric softener leave an invisible film on the mesh that reduces airflow over time. Every three months, remove the screen, wash it with warm soapy water, and scrub gently with a soft brush. Let it dry completely before reinstalling.
Have the Dryer Vent Cleaned Annually
The vent duct that carries hot, moist air from your dryer to the outside of your home accumulates lint over time. A clogged vent is the number one cause of dryer fires in the United States. It also forces your dryer to work much harder, shortening its lifespan and driving up your utility bills. Have a professional clean the full vent line at least once a year. If you notice your dryer taking significantly longer to dry clothes, that is a strong sign the vent needs attention now. Our dryer repair service includes vent inspections.
Keep the Area Around Your Dryer Clear
Dryers need adequate airflow around them to operate safely and efficiently. Do not push the dryer flush against the wall — leave at least four inches of clearance behind it to avoid crimping the vent hose. Keep laundry baskets, cleaning supplies, and other items away from the back and sides.
General Tips for Both Machines
Level Your Machines
An unbalanced washer or dryer vibrates excessively during cycles, which damages internal components over time and can even shift the machine out of position. Use a bubble level on top of each unit and adjust the legs until they are perfectly level. Most machines have adjustable front legs and self-leveling rear legs.
Address Small Problems Immediately
A minor vibration, a slight leak, or an unusual noise might not seem urgent, but small problems escalate. A worn belt becomes a snapped belt. A slow leak becomes water damage. Calling for a repair when the problem is small almost always costs less than waiting until the machine breaks down entirely. Homeowners across Glendale, Burbank, Pasadena, and La Canada Flintridge trust our team for fast, affordable washer repair when issues come up.
Keep Your Machines Running Strong
Consistent maintenance is the simplest way to get the most out of your washer and dryer. A few minutes of attention each month can prevent breakdowns, lower your utility bills, and add years of reliable service.
If your washer or dryer is already showing signs of trouble, Glendale Appliance Repair Now is here to help. Call (818) 322-4652 to schedule a repair appointment today.
